If you've ever called your dog a mangy mutt it was probably an expletive directed to the perpetrator of some mishap. Maybe he grabbed something off the dinner table or chewed your best slippers. But if your dog really DOES have mange, that's a different story and a lot more serious than a pair of chewed slippers. Here's a little information on mange symptoms, how to recognize the condition and what to do about it.
Most adult dogs will have an immune system strong enough to ward off the onset of mange, which is an invasion of your dog's skin by mites. These mites are so small they can't be seen without the aid of a magnifying glass or a microscope. There are three different types of mites that cause three distinct types of mange. They are all more prevalent in puppies, up to one year old, and in old dogs with compromised immune systems.
The first is called demodectic mange and is caused by a microscopic-sized mite called Demodex canis. Mites are like tiny, eight-legged spiders. They burrow themselves under the puppy's skin and cause irritation and itching, which causes the dog to reply with endless scratching. Symptoms include thinning of the hair around the mouth and the eyes, as well as the front legs. This type of mange can heal by itself (sometimes) or it may need treatment.
Cheyletiella mange(also known as walking dandruff) is caused by a larger, red mite, that can actually be seen under a magnifying glass. Symptoms are a heavy sprinkling of white dandruff flakes on the dog's head, neck and back and a mild itching. It's contagious but short-lived.
The most serious form of mange is the one known as sarcoptic, which is also commonly referred to as scabies. The very small mite that causes this one lays eggs under the skin of its host. After 3 weeks these eggs will hatch and, before too long, be laying more eggs of their own. This condition will drive your dog nuts and should be taken seriously.
Dogs with scabies will dig and scratch and bite at themselves ferociously. They will feel miserable. They'll create sores which may become infected, thereby requiring the use of antibiotics for the infection plus something else to get rid of the mites.
Sarcoptic mange symptoms include intense itching and resulting hair loss on the ears, face and legs. This is in the earlier stages. Later, if untreated, it could include total body hair loss. And don't forget, it's contagious to not only other animals but to humans too. This is one you want to handle right away by taking your pet in for professional treatment.
Other conditions can mimic the symptoms of mange, thus making diagnosing the disease difficult. This is especially true if open sores and infections are covering the affected area(s). The first symptoms are always dry, itchy skin, but these can be signs of some unrelated condition also. You might want to look into getting a little more information on mange symptoms, which is readily available online. Nobody wants a mangy mutt!
Get more information about ways you can identify and treat dog mange using simple ingredients that can give you the fast results you want. When treating mange dogs can begin feeling better and healthier quickly!
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